<div class="htmlview paragraph">In order to bring the advanced finite element programs closer to the requirements of the <u>early design</u> <u>stages</u>, a compound beam element with varying joint and hinge moment-rotation curves has been developed and implemented into the public version of program DYNA-3D. The new beam combines the existing Belytschko-Schwer beam element with rotary springs having very non linear moment-rotation curves in the elastic-plastic and deep collapse range. The element behaviour under uniaxial and biaxial bending presented using simple models where various effects can be easily traced.</div>